People don't think about plumbing that often – until the sink clogs, the toilet stops flushing, and the tub won't drain. Here are a few dos and don'ts that might surprise you – and could help prevent a plumbing-related disaster:
DON'T Put All Foods Down the Garbage Disposal
Garbage disposals are incredibly convenient for getting rid of food waste, but these mechanisms cannot process all foods. Starchy foods, like potatoes, breads, and pastas; coffee grounds; fats, like bacon grease, oil, and butter; and fibrous skins from onions, garlic, and corn husks can easily clog your drain and cause quite a mess in your kitchen. And, to top it off, garbage disposals can be expensive to replace. To be on the safe side, stick to veggie and fruit scraps to prevent these types of clogs. While you're at it, don't overload the garbage disposal either - you want those blades to stay sharp, and an excessive load of food will dull them quickly.
DO Pour Hot Water Down Your Drains Periodically
Drains get clogged due to excessive hair or grease buildup over long stretches of time. Although reaching for chemical products can work in a pinch, the best way to prevent these clogs is to keep them free from these obstructions. Pouring boiling water down your sink and tub drains (not the toilet) once per month can keep your pipes free and clear so that you don't have to rush to the grocery store for emergency drain cleaner.
DON'T Flush Everything Down the Toilet
Toilets are designed for one purpose. That means that besides waste and toilet paper, nothing else should be disposed of in there, including feminine hygiene products, cat litter, personal hygiene wipes (unless the packaging indicates they are flushable), cotton balls, and cotton swabs. These products are more difficult to dissolve in water and can easily clog your toilet.
DO Invest in Leak Protection
These services are especially important if you are moving into or purchasing a new home. Install a leak-protection system that can alert you to plumbing disasters before they happen. Although it might cost you a few hundred dollars upfront, you could potentially save thousands by preventing a flooded kitchen or bathroom.
DON'T Go the DIY Route for Tough Clogs
We all like to think that we can figure out a tough clog on our own. However, plumbing is a difficult and messy business, and if something were to go awry, it could end up costing you even more. If you have a major plumbing debacle on your hands, it's best to put down the wrench, throw in the towel, and call your local plumber. In these situations, it's simply more cost-effective to rely on professionals.